Anaesthesia tips in cats

Anaesthesia Induction in Feline Patients: A Comprehensive Guide

Dr. Rachel Corman, Feline Internal Medicine Specialist at Veterinary Specialist Services walks us through the process of inducing anaesthesia in feline patients. Bridget, one of our surgery nurses, will be administering anaesthesia to our patient today.

Preparation:

• Ensure all necessary equipment is ready, including a metal tray, lignocaine with a soft catheter tip, a working laryngoscope with a bright light, alphaxalone (undiluted), and additional medications like midazolam.
• Have a variety of uncuffed and cuffed endotracheal tubes available, with a preference for uncuffed tubes in most cases.
• Constant rate infusions, such as ketamine and fentanyl, may be administered based on the patient's needs.

Procedure:

1. Pre-oxygenation: Place the patient on oxygen for a few minutes to prepare for induction.
2. Induction: Administer alphaxalone as an induction agent while closely monitoring the patient's response.
3. Intubation: Visualize the larynx using a laryngoscope, administer lignocaine if needed, and intubate the patient carefully, securing the airway.
4. Constant Rate Infusions: Maintain constant rate infusions for analgesia and support throughout the procedure.
5. Monitoring: Utilize CO2 monitoring, Spo2 readings, blood pressure assessment, and ECG to closely monitor the patient's vital signs.
6. Body Temperature Maintenance: Pay close attention to the patient's body temperature, utilizing warming techniques such as bear huggers, heating pads, and warm towels.
7. Eye Care: Apply eye lubricant to keep the corneas hydrated during the procedure.

Important Considerations:

• Be cautious with cuffed endotracheal tubes to prevent tracheal trauma in cats.
• Disconnect the ET tube before repositioning the cat to avoid inducing tracheal tears.
• Assess underlying disease conditions and have various-sized ET tubes ready.

Remember to browse our website for additional information on anaesthesia procedures. We hope this video provides valuable insights into ensuring a safe and effective anaesthesia induction for feline patients.